Atacamite

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Famed for having produced many of the world's finest Atacamite crystals, the New Cornwall mine in Yorke Peninsula, South Australia was, for some time, overshadowed by other local occurrences until it was realized that all the best material came from there, but had been wrongly attributed to other sources when the specimens reached Europe. It is now generally accepted that all of the great crystallized Atacamite specimen from New Cornwall mine came out during the narrow period in time from 1863-1868 and remain as the finest examples of this unusual copper chloride species. Consequently, all great specimens seen for sale from there were collected over 150 years ago. This exceptionally rich pure aggregate of Atacamite crystals consists of a slightly divergent spray/bed of deep green bladed crystals with chisel-shaped terminations, the longest crystal reaching over 3 cm in length but with stepped growth surfaces along its length. Showing a very glassy lustre and great translucency, their wonderful colour really stands out well, belying their considerable age. Careful inspection will reveal some age-related wear, but many of the crystals are in great overall condition. Mounted on a small colourless acryllic block for display it can easily be removed if required. A very high quality old-time Australian classic.